France Launches New Campaign to Prevent Rabies Introduction
France's Ministry of Agriculture launches a campaign to prevent rabies from travelers and pets.
Key Points
- • New rabies prevention campaign launched by the French Ministry of Agriculture.
- • France maintains rabies-free status, though isolated cases occur from imported pets.
- • Travelers are advised against touching stray animals in affected countries.
- • Strict guidelines imposed on adopting pets from rabies-affected regions.
On July 4, 2025, the French Ministry of Agriculture and Food Sovereignty announced a new campaign aimed at preventing the introduction of rabies into France, particularly through travelers and imported pets. Despite being officially rabies-free, France has experienced isolated cases arising from the importation of pets from rabies-affected countries, prompting the ministry’s proactive measures. The campaign, entitled "Gare à la rage," focuses on raising awareness about the risks associated with rabies and offers guidance for travelers.
Travelers are advised to avoid contact with stray animals in nations where rabies is endemic and to seek immediate medical attention if bitten or scratched. The ministry's guidelines highlight the importance of early veterinary consultations, vaccination against rabies, and adherence to strict regulations for adopting pets from affected regions. These regulations often require that pets be vaccinated, properly identified, and undergo blood tests to ensure the presence of rabies antibodies. The campaign serves as a crucial reminder of the ongoing global threat, emphasizing that rabies claims a life every ten minutes worldwide.